Swallow: meaning, definitions and examples

Repeated for the same context as described above.

• He had to swallow his pride and ask for help

A more formal or scientific term for the act of taking food or substance into the body, usually through the mouth.

• The study observed how different animals ingest their food

Often used to indicate the act of eating or drinking something, sometimes in large quantities or over a period of time. It can also mean to use up resources or energy.

• He decided to consume less sugar this year
• The engine consumes a lot of fuel

Describes the action of swallowing quickly and often in large mouthfuls, usually because of anxiety, haste, or thirst.

• After the long run, he gulped down the entire bottle of water

A very rare and formal term, usually not used in everyday language. Often implies gulping or consuming greedily.

• The medieval texts describe how the knights would ingurgitate large amounts of food at the feasts

Typically used to refer to the small bird known for its long migrations and graceful flight. Commonly seen in the spring and summer. Also can be used figuratively to mean accepting something difficult or hard to believe.

• The swallows return to our town every spring.
• It was hard for him to swallow the bad news.

An archaic term for a small bird, often without visible feet, used in heraldry and historic texts. Not commonly used in everyday language.

• The family crest featured a martlet, symbolizing nobility and speed.
• In old texts, the martlet often appears in descriptions of coats of arms.

Used specifically for the type of bird that builds nests out of mud under the eaves of houses. Common in Europe and known to be very social.

• The house martins have built nests under our roof.
• I love watching the house martins dart around catching insects.

Refers to a bird similar to swallows but with a shorter, more forked tail and more rapid flight. The term can also be an adjective meaning very fast.

• Swifts are amazing to watch as they speed through the sky.
• He made a swift decision to avoid the problem.